Manager's Message

If you like an abundance of opportunities in one place, you'll appreciate Paynes Prairie. Our visitor center will get you oriented to this 21,000-acre preserve. Watch the video, The Level Green Plain, view exhibits, see stunning wildlife photography, pick up a trail map, and observe panoramic views of the prairie from the 50' observation tower.

Florida's first people were drawn here over 10,000 years ago. Find out what attracted them to this unique place and mingle your footprints with theirs. We hope to see you soon.
- David Jowers, Park Manager

Welcome to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Paynes Prairie is biologically, geologically, and historically unique. This park became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774.

Over 20 distinct biological communities provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife, including alligators, bison, wild horses, and over 270 species of birds. Exhibits and an audio-visual program at the visitor center explain the area´s natural and cultural history. A 50-foot-high observation tower near the visitor center provides a panoramic view of the preserve.

Eight trails provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. Ranger-led activities are offered on weekends, November through April. Fishing on Lake Wauberg is allowed and a boat ramp provides access for canoes and boats with electric motors. Gasoline powered boats are not allowed. Full-facility campsites are available for overnight visitors. Located on U.S. 441, 10 miles south of Gainesville.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, please call 352-466-3397.

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Hours of Operation

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is located 10 miles south of Gainesville, in Micanopy, on the east side of US 441.

Coming from the north on I-75: Take exit 374, the Micanopy exit, and turn left at the end of the exit ramp. You will then be traveling east on CR 234. Stay on this road 1.4 miles until it intersects with US 441. Turn left onto 441 and go 0.6 miles to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park (on the right).

Coming from the south on I-75: Take exit 374, the Micanopy exit, and turn right at the end of the exit ramp. You will then be traveling east on CR 234. Stay on this road 1.4 miles until it intersects with US 441. Turn left onto 441 and go about 0.6 miles to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park (on the right).

Park Fees

Admission Fees - $4.00/vehicle (up to 8 passengers). Single Car Occupant - $3.00
Motorcycle Fee (one or two persons) - $3.00
Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance permit - Admission Fee $1.00 per person.

Camping Fees - $15.00 per night

Picnic Pavilion - A 65 person picnic pavilion can be reserved for $30.00 plus tax.

Group Camping - Camping fee is $4.00 for each person with a minimum fee of $20.00 per night, plus tax. Equestrian fee is $10.00 for both horse and rider.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

100 Savannah Blvd.
Micanopy, Florida 32667
Phone: 352-466-3397
Fax: Contact Park for Number

Citizen Support Organization

Friends of Paynes Prairie, Inc.
100 Savannah Boulevard 
Micanopy, 32667